Things to Do in Chennai in March

March Weather in Chennai

33°C (91°F) High Temp

24°C (75°F) Low Temp

0.0 mm (0.0 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is March Right for You?

Advantages

Peak temple weather - March's dry heat makes sunrise visits to Kapaleeshwarar Temple and Mylapore temples comfortable between 6-8am before crowds arrive and temperatures hit 33°C (91°F)
Beach season begins - Marina Beach and Elliot's Beach have perfect evening conditions with 24°C (75°F) temperatures and gentle breezes from 5-8pm, ideal for street food walks
Cultural festival season - March hosts authentic local celebrations like Panguni Uthiram with temple processions, offering genuine cultural experiences away from tourist-heavy December events
Optimal food touring weather - Evening humidity drops to comfortable levels for exploring T. Nagar street food and Mylapore's traditional eateries without the oppressive summer heat of April-May

Considerations

Afternoon heat intensifies - Outdoor sightseeing becomes uncomfortable between 11am-4pm when temperatures peak at 33°C (91°F) with 70% humidity, limiting midday activities
Variable rainfall disrupts plans - Despite low monthly totals, sudden 20-30 minute downpours occur on 10 days, often during evening hours when you'll want to be outside
Pre-summer pricing begins - Hotel rates start climbing in March as peak tourist season approaches, with accommodation costs 15-25% higher than January-February

Best Activities in March

Dawn Temple Walking Tours

March's early morning temperatures of 24°C (75°F) create perfect conditions for exploring Mylapore's ancient temples before the day's heat builds. The 6-7am golden hour provides stunning photography light at Kapaleeshwarar Temple, and you'll witness authentic morning prayers without tourist crowds. Local priests are more accessible for cultural conversations during these cooler hours.

Booking Tip: Book walking tours 5-7 days ahead through certified heritage guides. Tours typically cost ₹800-1,500 per person and include temple entry fees. Look for guides certified by Tamil Nadu Tourism who can explain architectural details and religious significance.

Evening Beach and Marina Food Walks

March evenings along Marina Beach offer ideal conditions - 26°C (79°F) temperatures with sea breezes make the 3 km (1.9 mile) stretch comfortable for food hopping. This is peak season for beach vendors serving fresh seafood, and the sunset timing aligns perfectly with dinner hours. Locals flock here in March evenings, creating authentic atmosphere.

Booking Tip: Food walking tours cost ₹1,200-2,000 per person for 3-4 hour experiences. Book 3-5 days ahead for weekend tours. Choose operators who include traditional breakfast items and evening snacks, covering both North and South Indian Chennai specialties.

Mahabalipuram Day Trips

March weather is ideal for the 58 km (36 mile) journey to Mahabalipuram - morning departures at 8am avoid peak heat, and you can explore the Shore Temple and Five Rathas during comfortable 28-30°C (82-86°F) temperatures. Return by 4pm to avoid afternoon heat buildup. March has minimal rainfall risk for outdoor monument photography.

Booking Tip: Day tours range ₹2,500-4,000 per person including transport and guide. Book 7-10 days ahead through licensed operators with air-conditioned vehicles. Tours typically run 8am-5pm with lunch included at heritage hotels.

Traditional Arts and Craft Workshop Tours

March's indoor-friendly weather makes this ideal for experiencing Chennai's artistic heritage in air-conditioned studios. Mylapore's traditional brass work, Tanjore painting, and classical music workshops offer respite from midday heat while providing authentic cultural immersion. Many artists offer March workshops before summer break.

Booking Tip: Workshop tours cost ₹1,500-3,500 per person for half-day experiences. Book 10-14 days ahead as spots are limited to 6-8 participants. Look for workshops that include take-home creations and interaction with master craftspeople.

Backwater and Pulicat Lake Excursions

March marks prime birdwatching season at Pulicat Lake, 60 km (37 miles) north of Chennai. Migratory birds are still present before April departures, and morning temperatures of 24°C (75°F) make boat rides comfortable. Water levels are optimal after winter rainfall, and clear skies provide excellent photography conditions.

Booking Tip: Full-day lake tours cost ₹3,000-5,000 per person including boat rides and bird guide. Book 5-7 days ahead with operators providing morning departure times. Tours include traditional fishing village visits and local seafood lunch.

Classical Dance Performance and Venue Tours

March is peak season for Bharatanatyam and Carnatic music performances in Chennai's cultural venues. The comfortable evening temperatures make outdoor venue performances at Kalakshetra enjoyable, and many visiting artists perform before summer break. This is authentic cultural season, not tourist-focused programming.

Booking Tip: Performance tours with backstage access cost ₹1,800-3,200 per person. Book 7-10 days ahead through cultural centers. Evening performances start at 6:30pm when temperatures drop to comfortable levels. Include venue history and artist interaction opportunities.

March Events & Festivals

Mid March

Panguni Uthiram Festival

This major Tamil festival involves elaborate temple processions through Mylapore and other Chennai neighborhoods, with devotees carrying kavadi and participating in ceremonial marriages of deities. The festival creates vibrant street celebrations with traditional music, dance, and food stalls throughout the city.

Early to Mid March

Chennai Music Season Extended Programs

While the main December season ends, March features special concerts and dance recitals by visiting international artists and cultural exchange programs. Smaller, more intimate venues host these performances, offering closer interaction with classical artists.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight cotton kurtas and breathable fabrics - synthetic materials become unbearable in 70% humidity and 33°C (91°F) afternoon temperatures

Compact umbrella with UV protection - sudden 20-30 minute downpours happen on 10 days, often without warning during evening hours

SPF 50+ sunscreen and lip balm - UV index reaches 8, and reflection off Marina Beach sand intensifies exposure during morning walks

Comfortable walking sandals with grip - temple visits require shoe removal, and wet surfaces from brief rains can be slippery

Light cotton scarf or shawl - essential for temple dress codes and useful for air-conditioned indoor spaces which can be overcooled

Insulated water bottle - staying hydrated is critical in morning heat, and many temples don't allow plastic bottles inside

Power bank and waterproof phone case - humidity can affect electronics, and you'll use GPS extensively for navigation in sprawling Chennai

Digestive aids and probiotics - street food exploration in warm weather requires stomach preparation, especially for first-time visitors

Light cotton pajamas - hotel air conditioning varies widely, and comfortable sleep wear is essential for early morning temple visits

Small daypack with rain cover - for carrying temple offerings, water, and protecting electronics during unexpected afternoon showers

Insider Knowledge

Book accommodations in Mylapore or T. Nagar areas - these neighborhoods offer walking access to major temples and authentic restaurants, reducing travel time in afternoon heat

Time your major sightseeing for 6-10am and after 5pm - locals follow this schedule in March, and you'll find more authentic interactions during these comfortable temperature windows

Download offline maps and translation apps before arrival - Chennai's street signs mix Tamil and English, and data connectivity can be spotty during rain showers

Carry small denomination notes (₹10, ₹20, ₹50) - temple offerings, street food, and auto-rickshaw rides require exact change, and vendors rarely have change for large bills

Avoid These Mistakes

Planning outdoor sightseeing between 11am-4pm when temperatures peak at 33°C (91°F) - this leads to heat exhaustion and missed photo opportunities due to harsh lighting

Wearing revealing clothing to temples - Chennai's conservative culture requires covered shoulders and knees, and March's heat makes travelers want to dress lightly

Relying solely on ride-sharing apps - during brief rain showers, surge pricing jumps 300-400%, and local autos become more economical for short distances